Name: Kim (aka KimJo) Jenko
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2005
Events: 100 & 200 breaststroke, 200 IM
Degree: BS in Chemistry with a concentration in biochemistry
Profession: Physician Assistant (General Surgery)
Current residence: Baltimore, MD
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program? My favorite memories at UNCW involved being part of a team, especially the camaraderie of cheering and pushing each other through practices I didn’t think I could get through. Another favorite memory is realizing tapering works (I never tapered before UNCW) and swimming fast at the conference meets! Coming from a high school swim with no pool where I swam independently and a small YMCA, the feeling of accomplishing goals as a unit was amazing.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life? Being part of UNCW Swimming & Diving taught me I can really accomplish anything and no matter how difficult something may be, I can push through it. This is in regards to athletics, academics, personal life, mental barriers, anything. It has impacted every part of my life in so many ways, it’s too long to write here.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck? After UNCW I moved to Washington, DC to get my Masters in biochemistry, and then worked at the National Institutes of Health doing research for 7 years. During this time I happily swam and coached Master’s swimming in DC. I decided to go back to school for my Physician Assistant (PA) degree in 2017 and now work as a surgical PA in Baltimore, MD. Also, I’m trying to get back into the pool more!
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW? Wrightsville Beach, of course! Also Blue Post, Marrz, and Soapbox in downtown Wilmington
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
Our life is your vacation!
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni? Let potential employers know you swam D1 in college and use this to your advantage. You will be surprised how many interviewers respond positively to this and the connections you can make with other athletic alumni, even many years out of college. The 4 years of hard work, team spirit, dedication, and perseverance is huge and will take you far!